SAEDNEWS: A cortado is a Spanish coffee drink that combines espresso and milk to create a smooth, balanced flavor. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make it step by step.
According to Saednews, A cortado is a traditional Spanish coffee drink made by combining espresso with milk. The word “cortado” comes from the Spanish verb “cortar,” meaning “to cut,” referring to how milk cuts through the acidity of espresso to create a smoother, more balanced flavor. You don’t need any unusual ingredients to make a delicious, café-quality cortado at home. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide.
Espresso: 1 double shot (about 60 ml)
Fresh milk: Approximately 60 ml, preferably whole milk for a creamier texture
Sugar or sweetener: To taste (optional)
1. Prepare the espresso
Brew a double shot of espresso (approximately 60 ml) using an espresso machine or a Moka pot, then pour it into your chosen cup.
2. Heat the milk
Heat the milk in a small saucepan or use the steam wand of an espresso machine. Do not let it boil. Warm it to approximately 65–70°C, until steam begins to rise but before it reaches boiling point.
3. Combine the espresso and milk
Slowly pour the warmed milk into the espresso. The ideal ratio is approximately 60 ml of espresso to 60 ml of milk.
4. Add milk foam (optional)
If you’re using a steam wand, you can create a small amount of milk foam to top the drink. Traditionally, a cortado does not have the thick, voluminous foam found in a cappuccino. Instead, it has only a thin layer of foam.
5. Sweeten to taste (optional)
If desired, add sugar, honey, or vanilla syrup and stir. In the traditional Spanish version, sugar is generally not added.
Maintain the correct ratio: The most important rule is to use a 1:1 ratio of espresso to milk. This preserves the coffee’s strong flavor while softening its intensity with milk.
Choose quality milk: Whole milk gives the drink a richer texture and produces smoother foam.
Control the milk temperature: Avoid overheating the milk, as this can give it a burnt taste and make the drink less pleasant.
Keep the foam light: Unlike a cappuccino, a cortado has only a small amount of delicate foam. The goal is to balance the coffee and milk rather than create a thick layer of froth.
A cortado is typically served in a small, thick-walled glass or ceramic cup, usually with a capacity of around 150–180 ml. Serve it hot immediately after preparation for the best flavor and aroma.
Enjoy your homemade cortado, a classic Spanish coffee that combines the bold character of espresso with the smoothness of warm milk.
